Top state parks
State ParkBicentennial Mall State Park
State ParkDunbar Cave State Park
State ParkFort Pillow State Park
State ParkMeeman-Shelby Forest State Park
State ParkReelfoot Lake State Park
State ParkCove Lake State Park
State ParkCumberland Mountain State Park
State ParkRoan Mountain State Park
State ParkBig Ridge State Park
State ParkBledsoe Creek State Park
State ParkCedars of Lebanon State Park
State ParkLong Hunter State Park
State Parks by county
All state parks (43)
Sky = estimated Bortle class (1 darkest – 9 brightest).
Map
How to photograph state parks
State parks often protect a signature feature — a gorge, lake or overlook — that is best in early morning before visitors and harsh light arrive.
- Check park hours: many state parks close at dusk, which affects sunset and night shooting.
- Ask rangers about photography permits for commercial work, models or drones.
- Weekday mornings are the least crowded at popular viewpoints.
- Trail maps often mark overlooks — combine them with the sun azimuth to plan.
- Day-use fees or passes are common; buy them online before arriving.
Season: Spring wildflowers and autumn color are peak seasons in most parks.